Faculty and Staff
At Pathways Christian Academy, our educators are more than teachers—they are faith-driven mentors committed to academic excellence and spiritual growth. Grounded in biblical truth, they lead by example, guiding students to think critically, serve faithfully, and grow in their walk with Christ.
Our Academy Staff
Cassie Ramirez
Director of Family and Student Services / Middle School Coordinator
Education
Bachelor’s Degree in Christian Professional Studies, Emphasis in Christian Teacher Education
Shasta Bible College
Professional Background
Cassie Ramirez is a seasoned educator with 20 years of teaching experience in private education. Her career spans preschool through 8th grade, both domestically and abroad. She has managed combined classrooms, served as a principal, and founded a preschool. For the past three years, she has led the middle school program at Calvary Christian School with excellence and vision.
Personal Philosophy
Cassie believes education is transformative. She is committed to creating a learning environment where students feel valued and empowered to reach their full potential. Her teaching is rooted in the belief that each student is created in God’s image, with unique gifts to serve His purpose.
Community and Personal Interests
Outside of school, Cassie enjoys outdoor activities like fishing and hiking. She also plays the piano and guitar. Cassie is married to Keith Estes, and they have four children: Jayden (13), Titus (12), Cyrus (10), and Lydia (4).
Natalie Tau
Director of School Operations / High School Coordinator
Education
Bachelor’s Degree in History/Social Studies Secondary Education
Master’s Degree in Special Education
Boise State University
Certified Teaching Credentials, State of Idaho
Professional Background
Natalie Tau brings 15 years of experience in public education, specializing in teaching students with disabilities and helping them achieve personalized academic success. For over a decade, she has also taught at the College of Western Idaho, focusing on pedagogy and teacher training.
Personal Philosophy
Natalie believes Christian education should be personalized to each student’s strengths. She views school as a partnership and works to help students grow in their relationship with Christ while preparing them for college and their future careers.
Community and Personal Interests
Natalie and her husband, Sifa, have three children: Lily (11), Faye (8), and Charlie (2). As a family, they love spending time at their cabin in Donnelly, Idaho, enjoying the outdoors together.
Lisa Arnold
Director of Business Operations & Development
Education
Bachelor of Business Administration in Economics and Business Management
Boise State University
Professional Background
Lisa Arnold has 20 years of experience leading operational strategy and growth in companies such as Clearwater Analytics, Washington Trust Bank, and Micron Technology. She specializes in creating and improving systems that drive efficiency and impact.
Personal Philosophy
Lisa approaches challenges as opportunities for growth, guided by her faith. She values perseverance, stewardship, and trusting God’s plan through every step.
Community and Personal Interests
Lisa serves with Because International as part of their Advisor Network, mentoring entrepreneurs worldwide. She’s actively involved in her church through the children’s ministry, finance committee, and prayer team. Lisa and her husband, John, have two children: Mila (8) and Jack (6).
MaKayla Sneddon
Junior High & High School
MaKayla is a dedicated English and History teacher at Pathways, passionate about fostering both academic excellence and spiritual growth in the classroom.
Creating a nurturing and faith-filled learning environment, I seek to inspire students to see God’s hand in all areas of their education as well as their daily lives.I believe in the importance of critical thinking, creativity, and Christ-centered learning to help students thrive both academically and spiritually.
I strive to support and encourage each learner, helping them grow in confidence and integrity. I hope to equip students not only with knowledge but also with the values and faith foundation to navigate life with purpose.
Outside of the classroom, I enjoy cooking, spending time with family and friends, and doing anything creative!. I’m excited to be a part of the Pathways family and look forward to another year of growth together!
Ralph Lowe
High School Science Teacher
Mr. Lowe brings a wealth of wisdom, leadership, and passion to the science classroom at Pathways Christian Academy. A retired pastor and veteran educator, he previously served as both a high school science teacher and principal in the public school system. During his teaching career, he was honored as Teacher of the Year for his excellence in science education. As a principal, his schools received state recognition for excellence under his leadership as an educational leader.
Now, at Pathways, Mr. Lowe is excited to integrate his love for God’s Word with his deep understanding of the natural world, helping students explore science through a biblical lens. His classroom is a place where curiosity is nurtured, faith is deepened, and students are inspired to think critically and grow spiritually.
Melissa Bryson
Kindergarten & 1st Grade Teacher
Megan Harmon
2nd & 3rd Grade Teacher
Amber Deaton
4th & 5th Grade Teacher
Amber is a passionate educator with a heart for Christ and a commitment to helping students grow both academically and spiritually. She holds dual Bachelor’s degrees in Early Childhood Special Education and Elementary Education from Boise State University, as well as a Bachelor’s in Human Services and Management from the University of Phoenix.
Amber’s journey began in service to her country as a member of the United States Navy from 1998 to 2005 in San Diego, California. After her military service, she devoted herself to raising her family, homeschooling her daughters during their formative years. Her passion for teaching and ministry deepened through her decade-long role as Children’s Ministry Director at a local Calvary Chapel.
In public education, Amber has spent five years as a Special Education teacher, serving students from 1st through 8th grade in an extended resource setting. She specializes in supporting students with mild to moderate disabilities, delivering personalized instruction and behavioral guidance to help each child reach their full potential.
Amber believes in creating a learning environment built on relationships, faith, and mutual respect. She encourages her students to explore, collaborate, and express their learning in ways that reflect their unique strengths—always with a focus on growing in their relationship with Christ.
Outside the classroom, Amber cherishes time with her husband, James, and their three daughters: Faith, Grace, and Love. Now proud grandparents to baby Joy, the Deaton family enjoys exploring God’s creation through camping, overlanding, rafting, and coastal getaways. Whether around a game table with friends or walking their two Labrador retrievers, Amber finds joy in community, nature, and family.
Mr. William “Bill” Dorsey
High School Music/Guitar Teacher
Mr. Reggie Etheridge
Discipleship Pastor
Cassie Ramirez
Director of Family and Student Services / Middle School Coordinator
Education
Bachelor’s Degree in Christian Professional Studies, Emphasis in Christian Teacher Education
Shasta Bible College
Professional Background
Cassie Ramirez is a seasoned educator with 20 years of teaching experience in private education. Her career spans preschool through 8th grade, both domestically and abroad. She has managed combined classrooms, served as a principal, and founded a preschool. For the past three years, she has led the middle school program at Calvary Christian School with excellence and vision.
Personal Philosophy
Cassie believes education is transformative. She is committed to creating a learning environment where students feel valued and empowered to reach their full potential. Her teaching is rooted in the belief that each student is created in God’s image, with unique gifts to serve His purpose.
Community and Personal Interests
Outside of school, Cassie enjoys outdoor activities like fishing and hiking. She also plays the piano and guitar. Cassie is married to Keith Estes, and they have four children: Jayden (13), Titus (12), Cyrus (10), and Lydia (4).
Natalie Tau
Director of School Operations / High School Coordinator
Education
Bachelor’s Degree in History/Social Studies Secondary Education
Master’s Degree in Special Education
Boise State University
Certified Teaching Credentials, State of Idaho
Professional Background
Natalie Tau brings 15 years of experience in public education, specializing in teaching students with disabilities and helping them achieve personalized academic success. For over a decade, she has also taught at the College of Western Idaho, focusing on pedagogy and teacher training.
Personal Philosophy
Natalie believes Christian education should be personalized to each student’s strengths. She views school as a partnership and works to help students grow in their relationship with Christ while preparing them for college and their future careers.
Community and Personal Interests
Natalie and her husband, Sifa, have three children: Lily (11), Faye (8), and Charlie (2). As a family, they love spending time at their cabin in Donnelly, Idaho, enjoying the outdoors together.
Lisa Arnold
Director of Business Operations & Development
Education
Bachelor of Business Administration in Economics and Business Management
Boise State University
Professional Background
Lisa Arnold has 20 years of experience leading operational strategy and growth in companies such as Clearwater Analytics, Washington Trust Bank, and Micron Technology. She specializes in creating and improving systems that drive efficiency and impact.
Personal Philosophy
Lisa approaches challenges as opportunities for growth, guided by her faith. She values perseverance, stewardship, and trusting God’s plan through every step.
Community and Personal Interests
Lisa serves with Because International as part of their Advisor Network, mentoring entrepreneurs worldwide. She’s actively involved in her church through the children’s ministry, finance committee, and prayer team. Lisa and her husband, John, have two children: Mila (8) and Jack (6).
MaKayla Sneddon
Junior High & High School
MaKayla is a dedicated English and History teacher at Pathways, passionate about fostering both academic excellence and spiritual growth in the classroom.
Creating a nurturing and faith-filled learning environment, I seek to inspire students to see God’s hand in all areas of their education as well as their daily lives.I believe in the importance of critical thinking, creativity, and Christ-centered learning to help students thrive both academically and spiritually.
I strive to support and encourage each learner, helping them grow in confidence and integrity. I hope to equip students not only with knowledge but also with the values and faith foundation to navigate life with purpose.
Outside of the classroom, I enjoy cooking, spending time with family and friends, and doing anything creative!. I’m excited to be a part of the Pathways family and look forward to another year of growth together!
Ralph Lowe
High School Science Teacher
Mr. Lowe brings a wealth of wisdom, leadership, and passion to the science classroom at Pathways Christian Academy. A retired pastor and veteran educator, he previously served as both a high school science teacher and principal in the public school system. During his teaching career, he was honored as Teacher of the Year for his excellence in science education. As a principal, his schools received state recognition for excellence under his leadership as an educational leader.
Now, at Pathways, Mr. Lowe is excited to integrate his love for God’s Word with his deep understanding of the natural world, helping students explore science through a biblical lens. His classroom is a place where curiosity is nurtured, faith is deepened, and students are inspired to think critically and grow spiritually.
Melissa Bryson
Kindergarten & 1st Grade Teacher
Megan Harmon
2nd & 3rd Grade Teacher
Amber Deaton
2nd & 3rd Grade Teacher
Amber is a passionate educator with a heart for Christ and a commitment to helping students grow both academically and spiritually. She holds dual Bachelor’s degrees in Early Childhood Special Education and Elementary Education from Boise State University, as well as a Bachelor’s in Human Services and Management from the University of Phoenix.
Amber’s journey began in service to her country as a member of the United States Navy from 1998 to 2005 in San Diego, California. After her military service, she devoted herself to raising her family, homeschooling her daughters during their formative years. Her passion for teaching and ministry deepened through her decade-long role as Children’s Ministry Director at a local Calvary Chapel.
In public education, Amber has spent five years as a Special Education teacher, serving students from 1st through 8th grade in an extended resource setting. She specializes in supporting students with mild to moderate disabilities, delivering personalized instruction and behavioral guidance to help each child reach their full potential.
Amber believes in creating a learning environment built on relationships, faith, and mutual respect. She encourages her students to explore, collaborate, and express their learning in ways that reflect their unique strengths—always with a focus on growing in their relationship with Christ.
Outside the classroom, Amber cherishes time with her husband, James, and their three daughters: Faith, Grace, and Love. Now proud grandparents to baby Joy, the Deaton family enjoys exploring God’s creation through camping, overlanding, rafting, and coastal getaways. Whether around a game table with friends or walking their two Labrador retrievers, Amber finds joy in community, nature, and family.
4th & 5th Grade Teacher
Mr. William “Bill” Dorsey
High School Music/Guitar Teacher
Mr. Reggie Etheridge
Discipleship Pastor
Cassie Ramirez
Director of Family and Student Services / Middle School Coordinator
Education
Bachelor’s Degree in Christian Professional Studies, Emphasis in Christian Teacher Education
Shasta Bible College
Professional Background
Cassie Ramirez is a seasoned educator with 20 years of teaching experience in private education. Her career spans preschool through 8th grade, both domestically and abroad. She has managed combined classrooms, served as a principal, and founded a preschool. For the past three years, she has led the middle school program at Calvary Christian School with excellence and vision.
Personal Philosophy
Cassie believes education is transformative. She is committed to creating a learning environment where students feel valued and empowered to reach their full potential. Her teaching is rooted in the belief that each student is created in God’s image, with unique gifts to serve His purpose.
Community and Personal Interests
Outside of school, Cassie enjoys outdoor activities like fishing and hiking. She also plays the piano and guitar. Cassie is married to Keith Estes, and they have four children: Jayden (13), Titus (12), Cyrus (10), and Lydia (4).
Natalie Tau
Director of School Operations / High School Coordinator
Education
Bachelor’s Degree in History/Social Studies Secondary Education
Master’s Degree in Special Education
Boise State University
Certified Teaching Credentials, State of Idaho
Professional Background
Natalie Tau brings 15 years of experience in public education, specializing in teaching students with disabilities and helping them achieve personalized academic success. For over a decade, she has also taught at the College of Western Idaho, focusing on pedagogy and teacher training.
Personal Philosophy
Natalie believes Christian education should be personalized to each student’s strengths. She views school as a partnership and works to help students grow in their relationship with Christ while preparing them for college and their future careers.
Community and Personal Interests
Natalie and her husband, Sifa, have three children: Lily (11), Faye (8), and Charlie (2). As a family, they love spending time at their cabin in Donnelly, Idaho, enjoying the outdoors together.
Lisa Arnold
Director of Business Operations & Development
Education
Bachelor of Business Administration in Economics and Business Management
Boise State University
Professional Background
Lisa Arnold has 20 years of experience leading operational strategy and growth in companies such as Clearwater Analytics, Washington Trust Bank, and Micron Technology. She specializes in creating and improving systems that drive efficiency and impact.
Personal Philosophy
Lisa approaches challenges as opportunities for growth, guided by her faith. She values perseverance, stewardship, and trusting God’s plan through every step.
Community and Personal Interests
Lisa serves with Because International as part of their Advisor Network, mentoring entrepreneurs worldwide. She’s actively involved in her church through the children’s ministry, finance committee, and prayer team. Lisa and her husband, John, have two children: Mila (8) and Jack (6).
MaKayla Sneddon
Junior High & High School
MaKayla is a dedicated English and History teacher at Pathways, passionate about fostering both academic excellence and spiritual growth in the classroom.
Creating a nurturing and faith-filled learning environment, I seek to inspire students to see God’s hand in all areas of their education as well as their daily lives.I believe in the importance of critical thinking, creativity, and Christ-centered learning to help students thrive both academically and spiritually.
I strive to support and encourage each learner, helping them grow in confidence and integrity. I hope to equip students not only with knowledge but also with the values and faith foundation to navigate life with purpose.
Outside of the classroom, I enjoy cooking, spending time with family and friends, and doing anything creative!. I’m excited to be a part of the Pathways family and look forward to another year of growth together!
Ralph Lowe
High School Science Teacher
Mr. Lowe brings a wealth of wisdom, leadership, and passion to the science classroom at Pathways Christian Academy. A retired pastor and veteran educator, he previously served as both a high school science teacher and principal in the public school system. During his teaching career, he was honored as Teacher of the Year for his excellence in science education. As a principal, his schools received state recognition for excellence under his leadership as an educational leader.
Now, at Pathways, Mr. Lowe is excited to integrate his love for God’s Word with his deep understanding of the natural world, helping students explore science through a biblical lens. His classroom is a place where curiosity is nurtured, faith is deepened, and students are inspired to think critically and grow spiritually.
Melissa Bryson
Kindergarten & 1st Grade Teacher
Megan Harmon
2nd & 3rd Grade Teacher
Amber Deaton
4th & 5th Grade Teacher
Amber is a passionate educator with a heart for Christ and a commitment to helping students grow both academically and spiritually. She holds dual Bachelor’s degrees in Early Childhood Special Education and Elementary Education from Boise State University, as well as a Bachelor’s in Human Services and Management from the University of Phoenix.
Amber’s journey began in service to her country as a member of the United States Navy from 1998 to 2005 in San Diego, California. After her military service, she devoted herself to raising her family, homeschooling her daughters during their formative years. Her passion for teaching and ministry deepened through her decade-long role as Children’s Ministry Director at a local Calvary Chapel.
In public education, Amber has spent five years as a Special Education teacher, serving students from 1st through 8th grade in an extended resource setting. She specializes in supporting students with mild to moderate disabilities, delivering personalized instruction and behavioral guidance to help each child reach their full potential.
Amber believes in creating a learning environment built on relationships, faith, and mutual respect. She encourages her students to explore, collaborate, and express their learning in ways that reflect their unique strengths—always with a focus on growing in their relationship with Christ.
Outside the classroom, Amber cherishes time with her husband, James, and their three daughters: Faith, Grace, and Love. Now proud grandparents to baby Joy, the Deaton family enjoys exploring God’s creation through camping, overlanding, rafting, and coastal getaways. Whether around a game table with friends or walking their two Labrador retrievers, Amber finds joy in community, nature, and family.
Mr. William “Bill” Dorsey
High School Music/Guitar Teacher
Mr. Reggie Etheridge
Discipleship Pastor
LEADERSHIP TEAM
Mr. Jake Clay
Head of Education and Interim Head of School
With roots tracing back six generations in the majestic Colorado landscape, Mr. Clay proudly continues his family’s legacy of service while upholding the values of Faith, Family, and Freedom. He first earned a bachelor’s degree in history and business while volunteering as a firefighter. After the tragic events of 9/11, he answered the call of duty, serving his country in the U.S. Coast Guard and the Department of Homeland Security. Following this critical period of national service, Mr. Clay shifted his focus toward educating and inspiring the next generation. He earned a master’s degree in educational leadership and has served as an educational leader and administrator for many years at the school, district, and charter levels. Currently, he is the Head of Education at BRAVE Academy. His dedication to service continues through his contributions to educational politics and his expertise on DHS and FBI advisory committees at both state and national levels. Despite a full schedule, Mr. Clay finds joy in exploring the Rocky Mountains, working on his future novel, and cherishing time with his loving wife and three children.
Ms. Olivia Vacca
Director of Curriculum & Development
Mr. Nate Eberhardt
Dean of Grammar School
TEACHER STAFF
Jane doe
Head of Education and Interim Head of School
With roots tracing back six generations in the majestic Colorado landscape, Mr. Clay proudly continues his family’s legacy of service while upholding the values of Faith, Family, and Freedom.
Jane doe
Head of Education and Interim Head of School
With roots tracing back six generations in the majestic Colorado landscape, Mr. Clay proudly continues his family’s legacy of service while upholding the values of Faith, Family, and Freedom.
Jane doe
Head of Education and Interim Head of School
With roots tracing back six generations in the majestic Colorado landscape, Mr. Clay proudly continues his family’s legacy of service while upholding the values of Faith, Family, and Freedom.
ACADEMY SUPPORT TEAM
Mrs. Mary Kenney
Admissions Coordinator
Ms. Shelby Kropp
Academy Coordinator
